Five Essential Items for Wilderness Hiking

Going on a wilderness hike is a very enjoyable experience. There is nothing like being out in the great outdoors. But being prepared for the hike is very important. Getting caught without being prepared can put hikers in a very dangerous situation. Even experienced hikers can run into trouble while on the trail. Today, we are going to go over five essential items that everyone should be carrying with them for a day hike. So, if you are going to hit the trail soon, make sure to pay close attention to the items you’ll find below. They just might help you get out of a sticky situation!

A Trusty Walking Stick

One of the best tools that anyone can have while out on the trail is a walking stick. Walking sticks for hiking are designed to help travelers traverse the land by giving them better balance. Walking sticks are used for more than just navigation. These sticks are really strong and can be used as a self-defense weapon if needed. The wilderness is full of potential threats from both man and beast. That’s why having something to protect yourself is very important. When choosing a walking stick, make sure that you pick one that is right for you. Your height will determine the length of stick you need. Choosing a hiking stick is fun and you will have lots of options to choose from. Whatever your own personal style is, there will be a hiking stick that will match your personality. So, if you don’t have one already, make sure you purchase one before you head out into nature.

Basic First Aid Kit

Never leave home without a basic first aid kit. It can save your life! First aid kits contain the essential tools that you will need to help prevent infection, stop bleeding, and treat injuries while in the field. While a first aid kit is not meant to be a replacement for emergency services, it can help stabilize your situation until help arrives. In the wilderness, even a small cut can become infected if not treated properly. So, having a first aid kit is very important for your safety while in the woods. There are many different types of first aid kits to choose from and some are better than others. Some first aid kits can lack the items necessary for those who travel out into the wilderness. This guide will help you find the right first aid kit for your particular needs.

A Daypack

Carrying a daypack is a must while hiking! But many might be asking “what should I carry in my backpack?”. The first thing you should add to your pack is a canteen of water. Depending on the length of your hike, you may need to carry up to one gallon of water. Next, you will need a fire source. This can be a durable lighter or some waterproof matches. Some sort of shelter will also be needed and a poncho will work well for this purpose. Pack enough food to last you for three days, even if you’re not going to be gone that long. Freeze dried meals are lightweight and won’t take up much space. Also, make sure you don’t forget to pack your cell phone. While you might not have a reception in the area you are going to, it’s better to have it than not. These are just a few of the essential items you should carry. To learn more about other items that you should carry, please visit this link.

Navigation Tools

Before you leave home, make sure to pack some navigation tools into your backpack. A GPS unit is a great tool to have while out in the wild. It will help you find your way, even if you have gotten off the beaten trail. You should pack a traditional compass and maps of the area as well. Having this as a backup could save your life if something happens to your GPS unit. Additionally, make sure that you know how to use the compass and the map. Just having these tools with you will mean nothing if you don’t know how to use them. For more information on map reading and how to use a compass, please visit this website. Here you will find a step-by-step guide on how to use a compass. This skill is something that every hiker should learn even if they never have to use it.

Signaling Devices

Another important set of tools that you will need to carry with you are signaling devices. Three of the most popular signaling devices are a whistle, a mirror, and an air horn. Each of these devices can be used to draw attention to yourself and bring help from even from a distance. To be safe, make sure to pack at least two of these items. A mirror, for instance, is great for signaling planes in the sky or other people on the trail. But when the sun is not out, it can prove useless. This is why adding a whistle or an air horn to your pack is also recommended. Having multiple signaling devices will give you greater opportunities to contact help in case something goes wrong. In remote regions, the task of finding someone can be very difficult. Being able to do your part by signaling will speed up the rescue process. Each of these items is affordable and can be purchased for just a few dollars.

These items may seem simple to some, but they can really save your life and provide you with comfort during emergency situations. The items you have learned about above are perfect for day hiking. If your trip requires you to be on the trail for more than a day, then you will need to carry additional items. Remember, even if you are only going to be gone for a few hours, make sure to tell someone. This will ensure that you have a lifeline in case something goes wrong. When it comes to hiking, safety should always be your first concern.